Minas Gerais researchers rediscover rare plants thought extinct

Researchers have rediscovered two rare plant species in the Quadrilátero Ferrífero region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, which had not been seen in nature for over three decades. The species, Paepalanthus magalhaesii and Coracoralina amoena, were previously considered potentially extinct.

The discovery was made through the Conservation Project for Rare and Endemic Species of the Quadrilátero Ferrífero, a collaboration between Vale, universities, and research institutions active since 2014. The plants were located within protected areas maintained by Vale, specifically in locations such as Capanema, Capivari I, Capivari II, and Cata Branca, spanning the municipalities of Itabirito, Rio Acima, and Ouro Preto.

Both species are endemic to the ‘campos rupestres’ ecosystem, characterized by rocky landscapes and ferruginous soil. These plants are noted for their ability to survive extreme thermal and water stress. Paepalanthus magalhaesii is described as growing close to the ground with small, white or cream-colored rounded flowers that resemble tiny pompons.